The federal government has decided not to impose emergency or governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for now, according to sources cited by The News. Instead, the government has chosen to give PTI another opportunity to reduce political tensions before considering any major constitutional or administrative action.
The decision was reportedly discussed during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior advisers and key members of his team. The worsening security situation in KP and PTI’s planned October 4 march on Islamabad were among the main issues considered.
According to the sources, both emergency and governor’s rule were discussed, but neither option was approved at this stage. The government is instead waiting to see whether PTI changes its current approach and cancels the planned protest.
Officials reportedly believe that the situation can still be handled through political dialogue if PTI chooses to de-escalate. Government sources said that cancelling the October 4 march could potentially open the way for discussions on several issues involving PTI leadership.
These could include improved access to Imran Khan, consideration of medical treatment or hospitalisation where medically justified, and arrangements for meetings with his lawyers, family members and close relatives. Similar issues involving Bushra Bibi could also be considered.
However, the sources stressed that any decision regarding Imran Khan’s release would remain with the courts and could not be guaranteed by the federal government.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said Wednesday that the October 4 protest remained scheduled. He maintained that the demonstration would be peaceful and urged the government not to impose emergency or governor’s rule in KP.
The protest was initially planned for September 27 but was later postponed to October 4 amid heightened political tensions and preparations by authorities.
For now, the government appears to be waiting for PTI’s response before deciding whether further action is necessary.
